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CAK destination photo
ORD destination photo

CAKORD

Our Recommendation
8.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior vantage point for the transition from the rolling hills of Ohio to the dramatic Lake Michigan shoreline and the iconic Chicago skyline during the descent.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🎢

Lake Erie Shoreline

Distant views of the shoreline, with occasional glimpses of the Sandusky area and the Lake Erie islands to the north.

🌊

Lake Michigan Coastline

A striking contrast between the deep blue of the lake and the dense urban sprawl of the Chicago suburbs.

🏙️

Chicago Skyline

Breathtaking views of the Willis Tower and the high-rises of the Loop during the base and final approach into O'Hare.

🛶

Chicago River

During lower altitude maneuvers, the winding path of the Chicago River is often visible cutting through the city's grid.

This is the 'skyline side.' For the best lighting on the Chicago buildings, book a morning flight when the sun is behind the plane, illuminating the city towers. During O'Hare's standard easterly arrival flow, this side provides the most direct and clear views of the downtown architecture.

Left Side Highlights
6.5
🏘️

Northeast Ohio Suburbs

The initial ascent provides views of the wooded residential areas and rolling terrain surrounding Akron and Canton.

🚜

Indiana Agricultural Grid

A vast, geometric patchwork of Midwest farmland and small rural towns stretching across Northern Indiana.

🏭

South Chicago Industry

The massive steel mills and heavy industrial infrastructure of Gary and Hammond near the lake's southern tip.

Choose this side if you are flying during the late afternoon to witness a beautiful sunset over the horizon. It is also the best side for observing the massive scale of the Midwest's industrial heartland as you approach the Illinois border.

Top Activities in Chicago
Route Information

Distance: 551 km (342 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 55 min

Departure: CAK (40.91609954833984, -81.44219970703125)

Arrival: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)

Route Type: Domestic

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